FAQs

At Castle Ring Oak Frame we understand that you will have many questions about the benefits of timber framing relating to your project. If you have any questions that are not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Do you only make frames in oak?

Although most of our frames are made from freshly sawn Oak we are keen to persuade people of the benefits of timber framing in either Larch or Douglas Fir. These locally grown softwoods have a durable heart wood that makes them suitable for structural frames. Douglas tends to grow straight whereas Larch can produce interesting curves. Using Larch or Douglas can provide a large overall cost saving on a frame as we buy it at roadside prices from a few miles away and mill it at Castle Ring.^ Back to the top

How much will it cost?

The cost is affected by factors such as size, complexity of design, number of joints and choice of timber to be used. Our comparative small scale and low overheads mean we are confident we can compete favourably. A Castle Ring timber frame may be more affordable than you think! Read more here.^ Back to the top

How long will the process take?

The design stage can take anything up to two months depending on complexity, and a planning decision where required is usually given within 2 months of an application. Detailed drawings for building regulations approval may take a further month. Once you have given us the go ahead to begin the frame this can take from 2 weeks to 2 months in the workshop and a few days to erect.^ Back to the top

Will the oak shrink and split?

It is part of the nature of green oak to split, bend and shrink when drying. This tends to add character and interest and does not affect structural integrity. Whilst we take care when selecting timbers it is not possible to prevent the wood from following its natural instincts!^ Back to the top

Where do you source your timber?

For large frames we source oak from a saw mill in Brittany, France. The oak for smaller structures is supplied by a local Herefordshire mill and all our Larch and Douglas Fir is felled within a 10 mile radius of Castle Ring.^ Back to the top

What cladding should I use?

Larch and Douglas Fir weather boarding is stable, long lasting, affordable and sustainably grown. Oak feather edged boards can also be used although they tend to move more during the drying process. Both options will naturally weather to an attractive silvery grey within a couple of years.^ Back to the top

What about insulation and heating?

We can offer some advice when considering ecological insulation options such as Warmcell in conjunction with
under floor heating and ground source heat pumps.^ Back to the top

Do we need planning permission?

Planning permission is not always required as some structures may be allowed under permissive development. However it is best to confirm this by contacting your local planning authority.^ Back to the top

Do we need to treat the oak?

Heart of oak needs no special treatment as it is resistant to insect attack. Provided it remains dry it will last for centuries and is the only building material that gets progressively harder over time! Tannins in the oak react with machining processes leaving marks and stains ? these can be removed by sandblasting the frame once it has been assembled and made water tight. This is a tricky, unpleasant and noisy job best left to professionals that will transform your frame, raising the grain slightly and leaving the oak a uniform paler colour. We would recommend leaving it at that, but you may wish to apply a pale wax which will darken over time.^ Back to the top